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Ship shape and Bristol Fashion

Posted by ESC on May 20, 2005

In Reply to: Ship shape and Bristol Fashion posted by Word Camel on May 20, 2005

: : The phrase "Ship shape and Bristol Fashion" has now been termed as politically incorrect as it apparently refers to slavery. A Bristol Historian disagrees and states it is about the good order of the ships which docked or built at Bristol. Any ideas?

: I don't, though there are several nautical language buffs here who may have some idea. I'm actually curious about hw has deemed this term politically incorrect. Where did you learn about this? Do you mind sharing?

From this site's phrase dictionary:

Meaning
Ready to go.

Origin
From the reputation the port of Bristol had for preparing ships for sail in good order.

Also, search under "Bristol" for more discussion.

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